By Nkechi Eze
In a bid to combat the rising threat of terrorism in Nigeria, the National Counter Terrorism Center, in partnership with the British High Commission and US Embassy, has hosted a one-day symposium in Abuja to tackle the growing threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The event, organized by the Office of the National Security Adviser, brought together experts to develop strategies for countering IEDs, which pose a significant threat to national security.
The event was attended by over 50 participants from Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government, including Security and Defence agencies as well as participants from the partnering UK and US missions in Nigeria.
In his remarks, the National Cootdinator, NCTC, Major Gen AG Laka noter that the Symposium aims to facilitate discussions on addressing the threat of improvised explosive device and develop a National strategy. General Laka thanked the British High Commission and the United States Embassy for the initiative and several others.
“These partnerships remain invaluable in strengthening Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, and we do not take them for granted. The support from our partners has been instrumental in enhancing the capability of our security forces in tackling evolving threats.
“The use of Improvised Explosive Devices remains one of the gravest threats to our security personnel across various theatres of operations. Their impact extends beyond the frontlines to civilian populations, critical infrastructure such as power transmission lines, and national stability.
“This symposium is both timely and critical, as it provides a platform for experts and stakeholders to deliberate on innovative strategies to counter this threat.
“Our collective goal is to enhance national capabilities in preventing, detecting, and responding to Improvised Explosive Devices incidents.” He said.
The special guest of honour and commissioner of police in charge it Explosives Ordinace Disposal (EOD) Chemical, Bilogical and Nuclear Unit, Patrick Adedeji, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Aniefiok Akpan reaffirmed the need to recall the threats posed by improvised explosive Devices, IED, to National Security.
“IED has become a preferred weapon of choice for terrorists, insurgents, bank robberies and other malicious actors, causing devastating harm to innocent civilians, security personnel, government and private critical infrastructure.
According to him, the Symposium is apt and serves as a critical platform and wake-up call for all to share professional knowledge, expertise and best practices in countering the IED threats.
The representative of the British High Commission, Brig Tom Harper noted that it was a privilege to support and co-host the counter-IED workshop with the US Defence Attache, Colonel Thom Brooks and the National Coordinator, Major General Laka, to explore how National strategies can support and enable the counter-IED fight.
“It is excellent to see such a broad range of agencies, which demonstrates the importance of the subject and the willingness to engage in discussions about a multi-agency, whole-of-society approach.
According to Brig Tom Harper, Nigeria is not the country in the region with these challenges, the IED attacks are transnational, across boarders and so to address these threats, collaboration and coordination amongst these other nations is required.
